JOWMA (Jewish Orthodox Women's Medical Association) Podcast

In this informative episode, Dr. Jennie Berkovich is joined by experienced neurologists Dr. Palma and Dr. Lewis, Executive Medical Directors at Eli Lilly and Company. Our guests take this opportunity to share  their expert opinion and scientific understanding of Parkinson’s disease and how we can anticipate medical interventions changing — possibly within our lifetimes.  We explore how our genes,...

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Orly Fuerst opens up about her journey from Israel to Houston and her life-changing diagnosis of stage four colorectal cancer. With honesty, humor, and unwavering determination, Orly shares how she continues to run, parent, and teach while undergoing intensive treatment. She explores the critical role of resilience, self-trust, and finding balance...

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Jennie Berkovich sits down with Dr. Carrie Holland—a former family physician who boldly transitioned into life and health coaching—to explore what it really takes to create lasting wellness. Dr. Holland opens up about her powerful journey from the clinic to coaching, revealing how a shift in mindset can unlock your full potential. Together, they dive deep into how to...

In this conversation, Dr. Jennie Berkovich and Emma Jones explore the critical issue of burnout in healthcare professionals. They discuss the definitions, symptoms, and broader context of burnout, emphasizing its prevalence across various professions. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing early signs of burnout, understanding risk factors, and the role of compassion fatigue. Pr...

In this conversation, Dr. Jennie Berkovich and Dr. Alan Rozanski explore the intricate relationship between stress, optimism, and cardiac health. They discuss the impact of chronic stress on cardiovascular disease, the importance of resilience, and how positive mindsets can promote longevity. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to health that includes behavioral management, mi...

Menopause is a natural phase of life, but many women find themselves unprepared for the changes it brings. In this episode, host Jennie Berkovich, DO, sits down with Valerie Altmann, MD, to break down everything you need to know about menopause—from common signs and symptoms to the differences between perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. Dr. Altmann shares insights into hormone replacement...

Perimenopause is often overlooked, yet it’s a transformative phase in a woman’s life that can bring a range of physical and emotional changes. In this episode, Dr. Jennie Berkovich sits down with Dr. Michelle Jacobson , an expert in women’s health, to discuss what perimenopause really is, how it differs from menopause, and the earliest signs women should be aware of. They dive into the role of hor...

This conversation focuses on the importance of health education and vaccination within the Orthodox Jewish community, particularly in light of recent measles outbreaks. Panelists discuss the roles of community leaders and health officials in addressing vaccine hesitancy, the significance of building trust between the community and health authorities, and strategies for effective health communicati...

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Miriam "Mimi" Knoll shares her journey into medicine, influenced by her family's legacy of healthcare professionals. She discusses her path to radiation oncology, emphasizing the importance of passion and commitment in pursuing a medical career. The conversation highlights the role of JOWMA in empowering women in medicine, the challenges of work-lif...

What happens when COVID-19 symptoms linger long after the initial infection—especially in children? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Melissa Stockwell , a leading expert in pediatric infectious diseases, to explore the reality of long COVID in kids . We discuss how long COVID is defined, its most common symptoms, and how it differs from what we see in adults . Dr. Stockwell shares insights in...

Measles is surging again, despite being declared eliminated in the U.S. decades ago. Why is this happening? In this episode, host Dr. Jennie Berkovich sits down with world-renowned vaccine expert Dr. Paul Offit to dissect the factors driving the resurgence. They explore the history of vaccine hesitancy, the role of misinformation, and what can be done to restore public trust. Are we over-boosting,...

Jennie Berkovich, DO, sits down with resilience educator Brooks Gibbs to discuss the power of emotional regulation and personal responsibility in dealing with bullying. Brooks shares his unique approach to helping students understand why they get upset and how to stop, offering practical strategies to build emotional resilience. They explore the evolving nature of bullying, including cyberbullying...

Join Jennie Berkovich, DO, as she interviews Claire Riley, MD, a leading neurologist, to explore the complexities of multiple sclerosis (MS). From identifying early warning signs to understanding how symptoms evolve, Dr. Riley provides expert insights into the diagnostic process, treatment options, and the role of lifestyle in managing this condition. Together, they tackle misconceptions, discuss...

Hosted by Jennie Berkovich, DO, this episode dives into the complexities of trauma, its effects on the mind and body, and the latest advancements in treatment. Dr. Kobernick, a trauma specialist, shares her expertise on the most common types of trauma she encounters, the evolution of our understanding of its impact, and the critical role early childhood experiences play in shaping resilience. Toge...

In this exciting episode of the podcast, Dr. Jennie Berkovich interviews Dr. Sarah Cohen, an expert in dysautonomia, to explore the complexities of this often misunderstood condition. Dr. Cohen shares insights into the types of patients she typically works with and how her journey led her to specialize in dysautonomia. They discuss common misconceptions physicians and medical professionals have ab...

In this episode, we sit down with Adam Ratner, MD, a leading expert in pediatric infectious diseases, to discuss the current landscape of vaccine-preventable diseases in children. With the resurgence of illnesses we once thought were eradicated—like polio and measles—Dr. Ratner unpacks why these diseases are making a comeback and what we can expect in the coming years. We also explore the evolutio...

Calling all pre-med and medical students! In this episode of Specialty Spotlight, we sit down with Dr. Chani Yondorf, a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Albert Einstein Medical Center of Philadelphia. Dr. Yondorf shares her journey through medical school, residency, and her current faculty position, offering valuable insights into the OB/GYN specialty. Beyond her clinical expertise, Dr....

Join Jennie Berkovich, DO, as she interviews Natalie Zelenko, MD, to discuss the vital topic of breast cancer screening. Together, they explore the latest guidelines on when women should begin routine mammograms, how technology has advanced to improve early detection, and the differences between screening and diagnostic mammograms. Dr. Zelenko breaks down what happens after an abnormal mammogram,...

In this episode, Dr. Jennie Berkovich sits down with pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Lara Hart to dive into the complex world of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in children. Dr. Hart explains what IBD is and how it uniquely impacts children compared to adults. They discuss the main types of IBD seen in children, the challenges of diagnosis, and how the diagnostic process unfolds. Listeners will...

Join us for an empowering and insightful conversation as Dr. Jennie Berkovich sits down with Dr. Amy Comander, a leading breast oncologist and advocate for patient-centered care. In this episode, Dr. Comander shares her expertise on the latest advancements in breast cancer detection, treatment, and survivorship. Discover how personalized medicine and multidisciplinary care are revolutionizing outc...

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Ellin Gurvitch, an expert in fitness, nutrition, and mental health, to explore the profound connection between physical and mental well-being, particularly for women. Ellin shares her journey into this field and offers a wealth of practical advice tailored to Jewish women navigating unique challenges. Discover how fitness and nutrition can support menta...

Join us for the 5th Annual JOWMA Conference: Transforming Healthcare Through Innovation & Research on January 5, 2025, from 8am to 5pm in NYC! Spend the day immersed in expert-led scientific sessions, hands-on surgical simulations, specialty roundtables, and a networking lunch tailored for healthcare professionals and students. PLUS, we’re offering a full premed program with panels, roundtable...

Join us for the 5th Annual JOWMA Conference: Transforming Healthcare Through Innovation & Research on January 5, 2025, from 8am to 5pm in NYC! Spend the day immersed in expert-led scientific sessions, hands-on surgical simulations, specialty roundtables, and a networking lunch tailored for healthcare professionals and students. PLUS, we’re offering a full premed program with panels, roundtable...

Join us for the 5th Annual JOWMA Conference: Transforming Healthcare Through Innovation & Research on January 5, 2025, from 8am to 5pm in NYC! Spend the day immersed in expert-led scientific sessions, hands-on surgical simulations, specialty roundtables, and a networking lunch tailored for healthcare professionals and students. PLUS, we’re offering a full premed program with panels, roundtable...

Step into the fascinating world of plastic surgery with Dr. Ilana Margulies, a PGY5 integrated plastic surgery resident at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. In this episode, Dr. Margulies shares her journey through medicine, blending technical mastery with a deep understanding of psychology to transform lives through plastic surgery. Dr. Margulies sheds light on the complexity of the field,...